Thoughts on the Present Discontents, and Speeches

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Burke, Edmund, 1729-1797

Contributor:

Morley, Henry, 1822-1894

Language:

English

Physical Description:

1 online resource : multiple file formats

Place of Publication:

Salt Lake City, UT : Project Gutenberg,

Summary:

"Thoughts on the Present Discontents, and Speeches" by Edmund Burke is a political treatise composed during the late 18th century. The work reflects Burke's exploration of contemporary political issues in Britain, particularly focusing on the discontent surrounding the government and the influence of monarchy and parliament on the lives of citizens. His arguments are deeply rooted in his political philosophy, advocating for a more representative and accountable government while criticizing the existing systems and individuals in power. At the start of the treatise, Burke addresses the complexities involved in analyzing public discontent and the challenges that arise when attempting to identify its causes. He highlights the prevailing unrest in society, rooted in a mixture of public dissatisfaction with government, the rising influence of wealth in politics, and the perceived disconnect between the rulers and the governed. He warns of the dangers of favoring court influence over popular sentiment, asserting that genuine governance should reflect the will and character of its people. Burke's opening sets the tone for an in-depth political critique, inviting readers to consider the broader implications of leadership and governance in a time of societal upheaval. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Contents:

Thoughts on the present discontents

Speech on the Middlesex election

Speech on the power of juries in prosecutions for libels

Speech on a bill for shortening the duration of Parliaments

Speech on reform of representation in the House of Commons.

Credits:

Transcribed from the 1886 Cassell & Company edition by David Price. and proofing by David, Terry L. Jeffress, Edgar A. Howard

Notes:

Reading ease score: 50.1 (10th to 12th grade). Somewhat difficult to read.

Release date is 2000-05-01